Toronto Raptors stumble in final moments as Brooklyn Nets seize control
The Toronto Raptors returned home with a heavy heart following a disappointing 96-81 defeat against the Brooklyn Nets at the Barclays Center. The game took a pivotal turn when Raptors forward Jamison Battle electrified the crowd with a dunk, propelling Toronto to a fleeting one-point lead with 9:37 remaining. However, this brief glimmer of hope quickly diminished as the Raptors were outscored 24-8 in the closing stretch.
Brooklyn capitalized on the Raptors’ faltering momentum, executing a decisive 10-0 run that allowed them to seize the lead for good. The Nets’ offensive surge left Toronto scrambling, unable to recover or find their rhythm again.
Fourth-quarter woes haunt the Raptors again
This loss marked a troubling trend for the Raptors, who have now faltered in the final quarter for the second consecutive game. With two matches played in less than 24 hours, fatigue appeared to take its toll on the squad. The absence of center Jakob Poeltl, who had previously missed a game due to back stiffness, was acutely felt. He managed only seven minutes on the court, further complicating Toronto’s efforts to maintain their intensity.
Brandon Ingram stood out as the leading scorer for the Raptors, notching 19 points. Meanwhile, Immanuel Quickley, despite a challenging night where he shot just 5-of-16, found some redemption with a double-double of 17 points and 10 assists after a dismal performance in the previous game. Scottie Barnes, however, continued to struggle, contributing only six points on 3-of-10 shooting from the field, raising concerns about his consistency.
Nets’ balanced attack shines through
On the opposite end, the Nets showcased a well-rounded offensive performance, led by Michael Porter Jr., who erupted for 24 points and secured 11 rebounds, marking a strong double-double. Noah Clowney added 19 points, while rookie Egor Demin chipped in with 16 points. Nic Claxton also made his presence felt on the score sheet with 12 points, illustrating Brooklyn’s depth and versatility.
This defeat stings for the Raptors, who had felt buoyed by a two-game winning streak earlier, only to see their progress stunted once again. The team appears to be caught in a frustrating cycle of taking two steps forward and three steps back—a reality they desperately need to alter as the season progresses.
The Raptors’ schedule does not get any easier, as they prepare to face the Miami Heat in their final game before the Christmas break. The matchup is set for Tuesday at 7:30 p.m. ET at the Kaseya Center, with fans able to tune in via TSN Sports or stream on NBA League Pass.
